[RFI] Plasma TV

[Brian Davis]

I agree fully with Howard, WB3FFV regarding the quality picture available with the plasma TV.  The picture quality is worth the hassle I have with my Samsung 50" plasma.  The ANC4 noise canceler helps reduce the noise but does not totally eliminate it (I have not optimized my sense antenna location). I bought the TV knowing  there might be some RFI, so I looked into that situation.  I knew I would not be happy with the poorer picture of a LCD set.

Knowing the plasma RFI problems, I took my Sony 2010 portable HF radio to the store to check out the seriousness of the problem.   Needless to say with all the TVs in the store, the poor HF radio didn't know what to do.  The store ("The Little Guys", greater Chicago area)  was very understanding with my antics.  They heard the noise also.   They agreed upon a condition of sale: that if we installed the TV and I had unacceptable RFI they would take it back, no questions.

The TV was delivered by The Little Guys (I think the name refers them not being a big box store), and set it up.  While that work was going on, I fired up the ham radio.   The delivery guys came to the ham shack and listened with me.  I was pleased that the noise from the Samsung was very acceptable and I kept the TV.  I now enjoy football and Nascar races in HD.

Antenna system is 50 foot tower with 5 band beam on top.   I have a 80 meter dipole at 45 feet running right over the house and TV.  Some day I may move one leg of the dipole away from the TV to see if things change.  The dipole is fed with open ladder line and used on 80, 40 and 30 meters. 

Bottom line:  I have RFI only on 80 meters and have noise spikes only on some frequencies.  I would say without noise canceling, about 50% of the band gives me problems.  I have not relocated any antennas in an effort to mitigate because my loss of 80 meters is not that bad for me.  I spend most time on 160, 40 and 20 thru 10.  Don't dismiss the advantages of a plasma TV until you consider all options.

73,  Brian, W9HLQ